From the podcasts, to the blogs, to the lengthy discussion/debates in many threads...I appreciate it, and I am wishing everyone a Happy Holidays.  

@Ozzy Smith, Thanks for taking the time and writing such a lengthy response.

I apologize for the lengthy post, I hope to save someone out there some money and to be aware of this company!

Just read that after the tax sale is finalized and the delinquent taxes are paid and ther is money left over due to high bidding on the property.  

I'm starting an overdue direct mail campaign of 1000 letters on Monday so hoping that over the next few months that will net a deal or two.The plus side to all of this is that prices have risen to the point where new construction is feasible again in the upper middle class areas and above.Has anyone seen any solid stats that show what the % of owner occupants vs investors is on the current buying frenzy?

I know if lengthy, but I really do appreciate the imparting of wisdom to the newbies.

After speaking with the renter at length, I have the feeling that if she knew she might actually offer to purchase the house herself.  

One way to retrieve money lost this way may be to pay with a Mastercard, though the process of being reimbursed is lengthy and sometimes scam vicitms have their claims declined alltogether due to negligence.

It'd actually be more of a hindrance since you would (I'm assuming) be required to disclose that you're licensed and provide disclosure forms when appropriate, which a "normal" investor wouldn't have to do.Getting your broker's license is a lengthy process, and it of course costs money, and MLS access also costs money... so the real question becomes whether or not your time is best utilized pursuing that license for MLS access or using an agent and eating the commission costs on the selling side.

I have a lengthy Legal Opinion, from my seasoned Legal Team regarding this matter.